Deonte James Ellison, a 19-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on May 8, 2020, in Asheville, North Carolina. Deonte was a talented athlete, known for his prowess in baseball, basketball, and football. He was deeply loved by his family, especially his younger brother, Ayden. Deonte's death has left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.
On the night of May 8, 2020, Deonte Ellison and another victim, Javon Malik Brown, were shot while inside a vehicle in
the parking lot of a Wendy's restaurant on Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. The incident occurred around 9:15 PM. Javon Malik Brown, a 23-year-old African American male, was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene. Deonte Ellison, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was found seriously injured after the vehicle crashed at the intersection of Merrimon Avenue and Chestnut Street. He was transported to Mission Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The Asheville Police Department launched an investigation into the double homicide. On May 21, 2020, 18-year-old Amar Colia Clark was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon in connection with the deaths of Deonte Ellison and Javon Malik Brown. Additionally, a juvenile was charged with accessory after the fact to first-degree murder. The investigation revealed that both victims were shot while inside the vehicle at the Wendy's restaurant, and the driver and another passenger fled the scene on foot after the shooting.
The case remains under investigation, and the Asheville Police Department has urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Deonte Ellison's death has left a lasting impact on his family and the community, who continue to mourn the loss of a young life taken too soon.
